Use your camera and words to express your understanding of Confucian thought, uncover the stories behind the spread of Confucianism, and explore the contemporary relevance of Confucian culture and its influence on international exchanges and mutual learning. With passion and creativity, connect the past with the present, bridge China and the world, and showcase the rich history and unique charm of Confucian thought and culture.

Theme

Submit photos, writings, and short videos on the theme "Dialogue with Confucius, Mutual Learning of Civilizations".

Rules

1. Who can participate

This contest is open to teenagers from around the world and is divided into two categories: domestic and international participants.

2. Submission period

Submissions are accepted until March 31, 2025.

3. Submission guidelines

Writing: The genre is open, and the title should be self-chosen. Submissions must present a clear and well-defined viewpoint with authentic emotion and insight. Submissions can be in either Chinese or English, with a maximum word/character count of 4,000.

Video: Videos can be presented in various formats, including speeches, interviews, short films, talent shows, talk shows, or vlogs. The title must be self-chosen, with a maximum duration of 5 minutes. The resolution should be at least 1280x720 and the file size should not exceed 500 megabytes in MP4 or MOV format. The language can be Chinese or English. A description of no more than 200 words in Chinese or English should accompany the submission.

Photo: Submissions can include photos or illustrations. Titles must be self-selected, and each set may include up to 10 images, with each photo not exceeding 5 MB in JPG or PNG format. A description of no more than 200 words in Chinese or English is required.

Awards

Each category (writing, video, and image-based works) will feature four types of awards: One Grand Prize Winner, 10 Runners-up, 20 Most Innovative Creations, and several Finalists. Awarded works will have the opportunity to be showcased and will receive certificates of recognition.

Best Organization Award

Organizations that actively encourage group submissions and demonstrate high-quality work will be awarded the title of "Best Organization".

Exhibition and events

The organizing committee will host a special exhibition area for outstanding works, allowing creators to showcase their creativity and depth and helping more people appreciate the charm of Confucian culture. Selected outstanding creators will be invited to participate in a series of events at the 2025 China International Confucius Cultural Festival, as well as the 21st Century Cup series of events organized by China Daily, engaging in cultural exchanges with other talented youth from around the world.

Submission methods

Online: Visit the official contest website (https://cfstory.i21st.cn/), register, and upload your work.

Mobile: Scan the QR code on the poster above to access the submission page, register, and upload your work.

Notes

Personal information and originality: Participants must ensure that their personal information is accurate. Submitted works must be original and must not infringe upon any copyrights, portrait rights, or other legal rights. Any violation will result in immediate disqualification, and participants will bear legal responsibility.

Copyright: The copyright for participants' videos, written content, photos, and recordings will belong to the event organizers. The organizers have the right to use these works for non-commercial purposes, including media publication, exhibitions, and online promotions.

Compliance: From the date of registration, participants must comply with the event's guidelines. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.

Rights: Upon submission, participants agree that the event organizer has the right to edit, publish, and use their works.

Final interpretation: The final interpretation for all matters related to this event rests with the event organizers.